Striker Mauro Icardi is still recovering from a hernia operation, and he is joined on the sidelines by Diego Milito (thigh) and Zdravko Kuzamanovic (knee).

Bologna have endured a dismal start to the season, and sit just a point clear of the relegation zone in 16th place.

Stefano Pioli's men have experienced a slight upturn in fortunes in recent times, and earned consecutive wins over Livorno and Cagliari late last month.

A three-match unbeaten run was brought to an end by Atalanta prior to the international break but, although their home record against Inter is poor, the hosts can take heart from their 1-0 win at San Siro last season and 3-0 triumph the campaign before.

Pioli will be boosted by the return of goalkeeper Dejan Stojanovic and defender Cesare Natali, but Nicolo Cherubin (foot) and Henry Gimenez (nose) are still sidelined.